Heather Lea LaRue Ball

Heather Lea Ball, age 49, of Derby, Kansas, passed away on January 21, 2024. She was born on February 28, 1974, in Wichita, Kansas, to Donna L. Ball and James B. Ball. Heather Ball and Steven LaRue were married in El Dorado, Kansas, initially meeting at a church picnic. Together they served the youth of Trinity United Methodist Church as youth leaders for two years, encouraging young people in their walk with God.

Heather was a loving and devoted mother to her children Dylan, Thomas, Jason, and Elizabeth. She had a passion for animals and opened her home to numerous cats, dogs, and horses. Heather enjoyed sewing, baking cookies and had mastered the art of baking delicious apple pies from scratch.

Heather graduated from Campus High School in 1992. As her children grew, so did her desire to help others. Heather continued her education, graduating in 2004 with honors from Friends University in Wichita. With a degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, she was employed 18 years working with individuals, families and children in the Wichita area. In recent years she was employed at Derby Dental in Derby, Kansas.

Heather is survived by sons Dylan and daughter-in-law Ashlee LaRue of Mulvane, Thomas LaRue of Mulvane, Jason LaRue of Wichita and daughter Elizabeth LaRue of El Dorado, Steven LaRue, brother Chris Ball, and many nieces and nephews. Heather was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.

A Celebration of Life was held on Friday, January 26, 2024, at Trinity United Methodist Church in El Dorado, Kansas. The service was officiated by Pastor HyunJung Choi. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope in the Valley Equine Rescue and Sanctuary of Valley Center, a cause close to Heather's heart.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Wichita, Kansas, assisted the family with the funeral arrangements.

Heather Lea Ball will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her legacy of love, compassion, and dedication will be remembered forever.